West Ham United striker Modibo Maiga admits he came close to joining St Etienne in the summer.
Maiga scored only two Premier League goals last season following his £4.7million switch from Sochaux - and nearly joined St Etienne in the summer.
"It was almost done," he said. "I wasn't happy. If a player doesn't play, and if you want to progress, you have to leave.
"The most important thing was to rediscover the pleasure of playing again. The supporters have backed me very well. When I hear them sing my name, it is a great feeling. It gives me determination to work harder."